Winter Tourism Surge Prompts VIA to Shift 10 International Carriers to Terminal 2
- MACL will move check-in operations for 10 international airlines to Terminal 2 at VIA starting 25 October 2026.
- The shift aims to distribute passenger traffic and ease congestion during the peak winter holiday season.
- Terminal 2, reopened in February 2026 after modernization, offers 27 check-in counters and upgraded facilities.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced that check-in operations for 10 international airlines will move to Terminal 2 at Velana International Airport (VIA) starting Sunday, 25 October 2026.
In their press release, MACL highlights that the strategic adjustment aims to manage the anticipated influx of tourists during the peak winter holiday season by distributing passenger traffic across both terminal facilities.
Under the new operational plan, passengers departing on Neos, Aeroflot, US-Bangla Airlines, Centrum Air, Azur Air, S7 Airlines, Shirak Avia, Kuwait Airways, GullivAir, and French Bee must complete their check-in formalities at Terminal 2. The arrangement will remain active throughout the winter travel period.
MACL confirmed that expanding international check-in procedures across both terminals will alleviate congestion in primary departure areas, increase counter availability, and streamline processing times during high-volume hours.
Terminal 2, which originally functioned as the primary international facility at VIA, underwent extensive modernization before reopening in February 2026. Whilst currently serving domestic flight connections, the upgraded building features 27 dedicated check-in counters, modernized baggage handling belts, expanded dining facilities, prayer spaces, and a children’s play area.
Airport authorities advise all passengers traveling with the 10 designated carriers from 25 October onwards to report directly to Terminal 2 and allow ample time to complete security screening and departure procedures.
